Report: Apple aims to replace Qualcomm in iPhones within three years

Apple’s Ambitious Shift: Developing In-House Modems to Replace Qualcomm

Apple is ambitiously moving toward self-sufficiency by phasing out Qualcomm’s modems in its iPhones. The tech giant has been engaged in creating its proprietary modem technology, referred to as Sinope, Ganymede, and Prometheus, over the past few years. The debut of its first modem, Sinope, is anticipated with the launch of the iPhone SE in 2025. However, it’s crucial to note that this initial offering is expected to use Sub-6 5G technology, which, while providing decent coverage, lacks the ultra-fast capabilities of mmWave 5G technology found in Qualcomm’s devices, like the iPhone 16 Pro, which boasts download speeds of up to 10 Gbps.

iPhone SE: A Testbed for Apple’s Modem Technology

The upcoming iPhone SE presents an intriguing opportunity for Apple to showcase its modem capabilities. While specific details about the device’s features remain undisclosed, the SE series typically borrows heavily from the designs and technology of previous high-end iPhones. Adhering to its established strategy, Apple is likely to present a cost-effective device that promises commendable performance, now integrated with its own modem technology.

A History of Self-Reliance

This move is not Apple’s first foray into self-manufacturing components. The company previously transitioned away from Intel processors by introducing the M1 chip in 2020, which dramatically enhanced Mac performance and energy efficiency. This ambition took root much earlier, with Apple’s acquisition of ARM architecture expertise laying the groundwork for the development of its own high-performance chips. Subsequently, Apple transitioned every Mac model to utilize its silicon, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to managing and innovating core technologies.

Benefits of Proprietary Modem Development

By crafting its own modems, Apple has a potential pathway to numerous advantages. Among these is enhanced integration between hardware and software, leveraging Apple’s unique strengths. Additionally, developing its modem technology can lead to cost reductions over time. More importantly, it facilitates innovation and customization of features independent of Qualcomm’s development timeline. This strategy was initiated when Apple acquired Intel’s modem business in 2019, obtaining vital expertise and resources necessary for this technological leap. However, the transition has faced challenges; reports indicate that Apple’s current modem prototypes still struggle with performance metrics, particularly regarding efficiency and global compatibility, thus necessitating a cautious introduction that starts with the SE model.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Apple Modems

Apple’s roadmap indicates aspirations that extend beyond just the Sinope modem. In 2026, the introduction of the Ganymede modem is expected, broadening its in-house solutions across more models, with Prometheus slated for 2027. To mitigate risks during this gradual shift, Apple has also extended its contract with Qualcomm until 2027, providing a safety net as it transitions to its proprietary technology.

Source: Bloomberg

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